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Discover ways to protect what matters most.Fri, 27 Mar 2015 03:23:55 +0000en-UShourly1Catalytic converter theft: Help protect your vehiclehttps://goodlife.allstate.com/catalytic-converter-theft-help-protect-vehicle/
https://goodlife.allstate.com/catalytic-converter-theft-help-protect-vehicle/#commentsThu, 05 Mar 2015 18:54:31 +0000https://goodlife.allstate.com/?p=1941by Brendan Catalytic converters are a mandatory component of all vehicles in the United States and are designed to reduce harmful emissions from exhaust systems, according to Edmunds. Thieves target catalytic converters because they contain precious metals, like platinum, palladium … Continued

Catalytic converters are a mandatory component of all vehicles in the United States and are designed to reduce harmful emissions from exhaust systems, according to Edmunds. Thieves target catalytic converters because they contain precious metals, like platinum, palladium or rhodium, Edmunds says, and they can sell them to scrap yards for about $100-150, according to the NYPD Community Affairs Bureau. But how are the catalytic converters removed?

Edmunds explains that thieves use a wrench or reciprocating saw to remove the catalytic converter in just minutes. Since it is relatively easy to do with the right tool, sometimes catalytic converter theft happens in broad daylight, says Edmunds. The Sacramento Police Department also notes catalytic converters are appealing to robbers because they generally cannot be traced back to a particular vehicle.

So, what can you do to help prevent catalytic converter theft? First, find out if you are a likely target.

What Cars Are Thieves Looking For?

All vehicles manufactured after 1974 have a catalytic converter, says Edmunds. But, the NYPD Community Affairs Bureau says the most common thefts happen in big lots or garages, company parking lots and mass transit commuter lots, where vehicles are parked for a period of time. Additionally, vehicles that sit higher off the ground, including trucks and SUVs, are a target, the bureau says, because thieves can easily fit under the vehicle and remove the catalytic converter while no one is around.

How Do I Know if My Catalytic Converter Was Stolen?

You may not be able to tell your catalytic converter was stolen by looking at your car, but you will know as soon as you start it. Edmunds says when the catalytic converter has been removed, your vehicle makes a loud, roaring sound, much like that of a motorcycle or hot rod.

Legislation

A victim of theft may end up paying more than $1,000 to get his vehicle fixed, says Edmunds. Several states are trying to help reduce catalytic converter theft by instituting laws that regulate metal scrap dealers, according to the NYPD Community Affairs Bureau. These laws may require dealers to check the seller’s ID before accepting the metal, says USA Today, and often the dealers will get vehicle descriptions and pictures of the pieces brought in by the scrap seller.

What Can I Do to Protect My Catalytic Converter?

To give yourself a little extra protection against theft, there are also things you can do:

If your converter is attached with bolts, Edmunds says mechanics often suggest welding the bolts in place or cutting the bolt heads off, making it impossible for the bolts to be loosened.

The Sacramento Police Department suggests getting your converter etched or engraved with your license number so metal shops can identify the vehicle from which the converter was taken. Etching or engraving can be done without removing the catalytic converter either by a mechanic or a DIY catalytic converter etching kit. Your local police department or auto repair facility may even host an “Etch and catch” event, where drivers can bring in their vehicle to have their catalytic converters etched with their license number, often free of charge.

When you are at home, always park your vehicle in the garage if you have one. If not, Edmunds suggest to park your vehicle in a well-lit area.

Edmunds notes that you can purchase catalytic converter theft prevention kits, designed to create a cage around your converter, making it more difficult for thieves to steal it.

Knowing if you are a target for catalytic converter theft is the first key to preventing it. If your situation or vehicle could put you at risk, take these preventative measures – it could save you some money and hassle.

]]>https://goodlife.allstate.com/catalytic-converter-theft-help-protect-vehicle/feed/0Keep the kids occupied on spring break road tripshttps://goodlife.allstate.com/keep-the-kids-occupied-on-spring-break-road-trips/
https://goodlife.allstate.com/keep-the-kids-occupied-on-spring-break-road-trips/#commentsSun, 01 Mar 2015 22:30:32 +0000https://goodlife.allstate.com/?p=1992by Melissa Dreading that long road trip to your spring break destination? Don’t wait for the fun to begin at the end of your journey. Get it started on the way there and keep the choruses of, “Are we there … Continued

Dreading that long road trip to your spring break destination? Don’t wait for the fun to begin at the end of your journey. Get it started on the way there and keep the choruses of, “Are we there yet?” to a minimum with these boredom-busting ideas for the whole family:

Go Old-School

Remember “I Spy,” “20 Questions,” “The License Plate Game,” “The Alphabet Game” and “Name That Tune?” Turn off the technology and revisit these classic car games you may have played as a child with your kids. Need a refresher? Go here for instructions on how to play the top 10 road trip games.

Tell Stories

Have the kids pick out interesting vehicles or drivers on the road and make up stories about where they are going. Or, try team storytelling: Each person in the car makes up a line of a story until you run out of ideas. You can even write down the tale as you go and have the kids draw pictures to create your own custom-made family story.

Get App-y

This one’s the opposite of going old-school: Take full advantage of technology with popular road trip game apps like these:

Road Trip Scavenger Hunt: With components of “I Spy” and “The License Plate Game,” this app gives your kids items to try to spot as they look out the windows — like a car pulling a trailer — and keeps track of the points earned by each player. 99 cents for iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad versions, and free for Android-powered devices

Bingo Apps: There are several versions of this “I Spy”-like app out there, but most of them work the same way: The app features a bingo game board, but instead of letters and numbers, it features icons of items you might see near the road, such as cows, light poles and gas pumps. As in “Bingo,” the first one to fill a row or column wins. Prices for apps vary; available for iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad and Android-powered devices

Family Car Games: This app instructs you in 100 no-equipment-required family activities for some unplugged quality time. $1.99; available for iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad

Mad Libs: Much like the paper original, this app lets you select from a variety of categories and insert words into stories when prompted. Free for iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad and Android-powered devices

Take a Detour

There are so many interesting and fun attractions on the road that it might be worth a little extra driving to stop and see something unlike anything you’ve seen before. If you’re looking for the unusual, websites like RoadsideAmerica.com can help you find unusual side destinations like the World’s Largest Frying Pan in Rose Hill, N.C., the Retired Sad Monkey Railroad in Canyon, Texas, and the Giant Beethoven Head in Fort Myers, Fla.

Document It

Take along a journal for your family to write notes, draw pictures and capture memories of your trip. Give your kids disposable cameras to snap some shots of whatever catches their eye. This strategy not only keeps everyone occupied, looking for photogenic roadside scenery; at the end of your trip, you can put it all together to create a unique family memento of your trip.

To make sure there’s no unexpected break in your spring break road trip, you may want to look into roadside services. Click here for more information.

]]>https://goodlife.allstate.com/keep-the-kids-occupied-on-spring-break-road-trips/feed/010 Spring cleaning tips to make your life easierhttps://goodlife.allstate.com/10-spring-cleaning-tips-to-make-your-life-easier/
https://goodlife.allstate.com/10-spring-cleaning-tips-to-make-your-life-easier/#commentsSun, 01 Mar 2015 22:17:15 +0000https://goodlife.allstate.com/?p=1994by Krissy Schwab Despite the chill that still lingers in the air, spring is here. Whenever I hear the word spring I almost always associate it with cleaning. And as much as I really despise cleaning, dusting off the dirt … Continued

Despite the chill that still lingers in the air, spring is here. Whenever I hear the word spring I almost always associate it with cleaning. And as much as I really despise cleaning, dusting off the dirt and polishing things up puts a smile on my face. For many, it means it’s time for a fresh start.

Spring cleaning is no small task, though. In fact, it can often turn into a huge beast of a project that some of us may give up on. To make your spring cleaning adventure a little less painful, I’ll share a few tips that always help me tackle my dirty house.

Make a list of what needs to be cleaned in each room.

Lists help me stay organized – especially if I have a huge project, like spring cleaning, on my plate. Before I even get started, I walk through each room and write down what needs to get done. Writing a list out also helps me make sure I have all the cleaning materials I need before I get started, saving me tons of time later. It’s a pain in the butt when you have to stop everything to run out and buy more carpet cleaning solution.

Make your playlist.

I have a cleaning playlist that includes the Black Keys, Boston and the Rolling Stones. Listening to music while I clean just seems to make things go by faster. Of course, you don’t have to make a playlist; you could always just turn the radio on to your favorite station.

Get a trash and donate box/bag.

As you go through each room, make sure to declutter. Throw away old magazines and papers from the previous year. Put items you no longer use or need, like that book you bought 10 years ago but never read, in the donate box. Once you’re done cleaning your whole house, itemize your donate pile because you may be able to deduct those donations on your taxes.

Work on one room at a time.

It’s easy to get overwhelmed when you want to clean your entire home all at once. Try writing down all the rooms in your home on a piece of paper and checking each one off as you go. If you can work on at least two or three rooms each weekend, you’ll get a lot more done and still have free time on the side.

Set an amount of time to work on each room.

I know I can get easily distracted, looking at items I’d forgotten or old photographs, and before I know it I’ve spent the entire day cleaning just one single room. Set a timer so you don’t fall into this trap. You can also use the timer to give yourself a little break here and there. Much like a list, it helps keep me on track. Trust me, I get easily distracted.

Get some help.

Don’t do all the cleaning yourself. Recruit your kids, significant other or roommates to help you out. I know that when my roommates and I pitch in together to clean the kitchen, it takes about half the amount of time that it takes when I do it myself. To be honest, if those who live there make the mess, they should also help clean it.

Start from the top and work your way down.

This is just the law of gravity – clean from the top of the ceiling to the floor. Knock all the dusty cobwebs from the corner, wash the curtains, clean the windows, dust the furniture, vacuum the furniture and finally vacuum the floor.

Use natural cleaners.

Many chemical-based cleaners emit hazardous fumes. Some cleaners when mixed together can even emit toxic fumes that can seriously hurt you. Vinegar is a great substitute to use in your bathroom or kitchen and as a general household cleaning solution.

My grandmother had sworn off “newfangled” chemical cleaners some years ago. She only cleans with vinegar. It makes sense, though, because the acidity of vinegar is extremely high at a pH level of 2. A study in the Journal of Environmental Health found that vinegar is comparable to bleach when killing harmful bacteria like E. coli.

Be patient.

My dad always told me to work smarter, not harder. Take your time and let grimy surfaces, like the ones in your bathroom and kitchen, soak in your cleaning solution. Work on something else on your list while your cleaner does the hard work.

Reward yourself at the end.

For me, having something to look forward to at the end of a long day of cleaning sure makes things go a lot faster. Plus, you worked hard and deserve it. Treat yourself.

OK, so these ideas won’t make all the dirt magically disappear, but the tips above can make the process a little less agonizing. Just remember to pace yourself. You don’t have to do everything in one day.

Want more spring cleaning inspiration for your home? Check out these helpful tips for cleaning up the outside of your home.

What kinds of things do you do around the house to get ready for spring? Share what you do with other readers!

Krissy Schwab is a writer at Quicken Loans, focusing on sustainable living, home, money and life for the Quicken Loans Zing Blog.

]]>https://goodlife.allstate.com/10-spring-cleaning-tips-to-make-your-life-easier/feed/0Your guide to potholes: Driving safety tipshttps://goodlife.allstate.com/your-guide-to-potholes-driving-safety-tips/
https://goodlife.allstate.com/your-guide-to-potholes-driving-safety-tips/#commentsSun, 01 Mar 2015 22:09:10 +0000https://goodlife.allstate.com/?p=1996by Melissa During my commute to work, I inevitably drive over more than 10 potholes each way. While a few of them are small, most of them are quite large and create for a very bumpy and uncomfortable ride to … Continued

During my commute to work, I inevitably drive over more than 10 potholes each way. While a few of them are small, most of them are quite large and create for a very bumpy and uncomfortable ride to work.

Many potholes are caused when relentless freezing and thawing of water under the pavement weakens the road and causes large cracks, which, when combined with the weight of vehicles driving over, eventually turn into potholes. Because of the role freezing can play in pothole formation, severe winter weather can often lead to lots of potholes — as many areas of the U.S. experienced after bouts of wintry weather in early 2014.

Properly inflated tires hold up better against potholes than tires that have too much or too little air.

If you can’t avoid a pothole, slow down before you hit it. But don’t brake directly over a pothole, which can actually cause more damage.

When driving over the pothole, hold the steering wheel firmly to avoid losing control.

Use caution when driving over a puddle of water because it might be a pothole in hiding.

After a little research, I found out that potholes can cause serious damage to my car, even if they are small. While I always figured running over a large pothole would be bad for my tires, little did I know that some potholes can have as much impact on your car as a 35 mph car crash.

In addition to causing structural damage to the tire itself, potholes may also cause your tires to blow out if they are underinflated. Potholes may also cause alignment problems, which can lead to uneven wear, according to the Car Care Council.

So if you’re like me, and have been running over potholes this winter, the Car Care Council says these are some symptoms of pothole damage:

The car pulling toward the left or right, instead of going straight, which could indicate an alignment problem.

Uneven tire wear, which could indicate an alignment problem.

Low tire pressure.

Bulges or blisters on the tire sidewalls.

Dents in the wheel rims.

Loss of control, swaying when making turns, bouncing excessively on rough roads, or bottoming out on city streets, which could indicate problems with the steering or suspension.

If you notice any of these symptoms you may want to take your car into the shop to have it checked for damage.

TIP: If you encounter a pothole, you should report it to your city, county or state transportation authorities. In some cases, your state, county or city may actually reimburse you for some of the repair costs.

It’s almost here again: April 15, otherwise known as Tax Day. If you’ve put off filing till the last minute, consider the following steps to help you minimize tax stress and maximize your return.

1. Save Time and Money by E-Filing

Most Americans now opt for electronic filing using the IRS’ e-file systems or online software, such as TurboTax, and for good reason: As the Internal Revenue Service notes, electronic filing programs often calculate many of the figures automatically, saving you time and helping to spot additional deductions and avoid costly errors. You can pay any taxes owed electronically, and refunds often arrive faster, too.

And for taxpayers earning under $58,000, there’s even better news: The IRS now offers Free File via tax software, enabling you to file electronically at no cost. If you earn more than $58,000, free electronic fillable form filing is available. This method is much like an electronic version of traditional paper tax forms.

2. Reduce Your Tax Burden Using an IRA Contribution

Traditional IRA contributions of up to $5,500 (or $6,500 if you’re older than 50) may be tax deductible, depending on your income and other factors, according to the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA). Even if you didn’t contribute during the 2013 calendar year, there’s still time. Take advantage of this opportunity to grow your retirement savings and potentially reduce your tax burden by making a last-minute IRA contribution prior to April 15, the AICPA says.

3. Important Tax Code Changes to Know

Recent additions to the tax code affect many Americans. According to the AICPA, some of these changes include:

A new method for calculating home office deductions. Taxpayers who work from a home office may now be able to use a simpler method to calculate their deduction. The new formula allows workers to simply multiply the square footage of their home office by $5, but note that a maximum of 300 sq. ft. (or $1,500) applies for the deduction under this formula.

Same-sex married couples filing jointly. Same-sex couples married in jurisdictions where the practice is recognized will be treated as married for all federal tax purposes, even if their state of residence doesn’t recognize the marriage.

High earners face new taxes. Taxpayers with incomes exceeding $400,000 ($450,000 if married, filing jointly) will face a new 39.6 percent income tax rate and a 20 percent rate on long-term capital gains and certain dividends. Those with adjusted gross incomes over $250,000 ($300,000 if married filing jointly) may also notice they qualify for fewer deductions. Plus, high earners may also be subject to new Medicare taxes. Consult with a tax or financial professional for additional details.

4. Installment Payment Agreements

Though most of us would probably prefer receiving a refund over owing Uncle Sam taxes, there are ways to make the payments a little easier. If you can’t afford to pay your entire tax bill by April 15, don’t fret. The IRS allows taxpayers owing under $50,000 to create an installment payment agreement using an online application or via tax form 9465. Be aware that certain fees, interest, or penalties may apply.

5. File an Extension

If you absolutely cannot file your taxes by April 15, it’s critical that you file an extension by that date in order to avoid incurring possible penalties and fees. An automatic six-month extension is available via Free File or tax form 4868. Remember, however, that interest or penalties may continue accruing on any taxes owed, so get to work on that payment plan ASAP to minimize the expense.

Please note that Allstate Life Insurance Company or its agents and representatives cannot give legal or tax advice. The brief discussion of taxes on this page may not be complete or current. The laws and regulations are complex and subject to change. For complete details consult your attorney or tax advisor.

]]>https://goodlife.allstate.com/5-last-minute-tax-tips/feed/0While you’re away: Pet care options for dogs and catshttps://goodlife.allstate.com/good-life-march-while-youre-away-pet-care-options-for-dogs-and-cats/
https://goodlife.allstate.com/good-life-march-while-youre-away-pet-care-options-for-dogs-and-cats/#commentsSun, 01 Mar 2015 17:46:13 +0000https://goodlife.allstate.com/?p=2000by Nicole Markle Many people see spring break as a great opportunity to take a family vacation. But, what about your four-legged family members? Pets can’t always tag along, so you may have to plan for their care while you’re … Continued

Many people see spring break as a great opportunity to take a family vacation. But, what about your four-legged family members? Pets can’t always tag along, so you may have to plan for their care while you’re away. Here are several pet care options to consider before deciding which makes the most sense for your dog or cat.

Boarding Kennels

A popular option for pet care services is boarding. According to the American Boarding Kennels Association (ABKA), kennels usually provide a private space for sleeping and an exercise area for playing. Depending on the layout, says the ABKA, some kennels offer free access to exercise runs throughout the day; some take the dog for exercise and potty breaks at certain times; and some offer all-day play with other dogs.

PetMD suggests picking a boarding kennel that has a Pet Care Services Association certification, which indicates the facility follows best practices for pet care. In addition to verifying certification, the Humane Society recommends getting references and inspecting the kennel, as well as having your pet microchipped before his stay.

When looking at boarding kennels for a dog, PetMD says you want to pick a place that allows the dog plenty of activity and socialization opportunities.

If your cat needs to be boarded, PetMD recommends choosing a kennel that keeps cats separate from each other. The website also says that cats should have a large area with a litter box, a hiding place and toys to help keep them comfortable.

Professional Pet Sitters

Animals that are older, shy or need familiar surroundings may do best having a professional in-home pet sitter come to them, according to the Humane Society. NBC News says in-home pet sitters can also help pick up mail, water plants and take out the trash while you’re away. Pet sitters typically visit your home daily (sometimes several times daily) to check on your dog or cat, and some pet sitters also stay overnight.

In-Home Pet Boarding

Pet Sitters International In-home pet boarding can be more affordable than a kennel while still giving you the option of more personalized attention for your pet, according to PetMD. With in-home boarding, you can leave your dog at the home of a qualified sitter (qualifications vary according to the service you select). In this environment, PetMD says your pet can stick to a more familiar routine and socialize with other furry friends in the house.

The Huffington Post recommends asking your vet for in-home boarding referrals and then personally checking out the person and their home beforehand. PetMD suggests looking for an in-home boarder that has good reviews and a clean and safe home large enough to accommodate your pet.

Family or Friends

Having your family or friends check on or stay with your pet may be the least expensive and most comfortable option for care. PetMD suggests asking someone you and your pet know to stop by your house a few times a day to feed and play with your dog or make sure the cat has enough food. You could also have a responsible friend or family member stay at your home while you’re away to give your dog a greater feeling of security.

Whether you decide to board, hire a sitter or ask a family member to watch your pet, don’t forget about your furry best friend this spring break. One of these options is sure suit you and your four-legged family member.

]]>https://goodlife.allstate.com/good-life-march-while-youre-away-pet-care-options-for-dogs-and-cats/feed/0Gas tanks: Why aren’t all fuel doors on the same side?https://goodlife.allstate.com/gas-tanks-why-arent-all-fuel-doors-on-the-same-side/
https://goodlife.allstate.com/gas-tanks-why-arent-all-fuel-doors-on-the-same-side/#commentsSun, 01 Mar 2015 17:36:55 +0000https://goodlife.allstate.com/?p=2037by Mac Demere Quick: On which side is your vehicle’s fuel door? Must you look at the little diamond-shaped arrow on the fuel gauge EVERY time you fill up to know which side holds the fuel filler? Have you ever pulled to the fuel … Continued

Must you look at the little diamond-shaped arrow on the fuel gauge EVERY time you fill up to know which side holds the fuel filler? Have you ever pulled to the fuel island to discover you’re on the wrong side? Did you utter bad words before or after you said, “Why don’t they put fuel doors on the same side of every car?!?”

The answer to that question is complicated, if not convoluted.

Based on my research into the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, I came to the conclusion (a conclusion later supported by my contacts at both the Ford Motor Company and Nissan North America) that no U.S. government regulation concerns which side on which the fuel door must be positioned. Much to the chagrin of many motorists, the fuel door can be on either side.

With no legal or marketing motivation, and scant ownership enjoyment implications, car-company engineers are free to place fuel doors on whichever side offers the easiest packaging, according to Ford spokesman Mark Schirmer. He added that there’s not enough room — and no demand — for dual fuel doors.

Preference

Americans prefer left-mounted fuel doors, said Schirmer, referencing a Ford study. A driver’s-side fuel door makes it easier for drivers to place the car’s left fender close to fuel pump. Still, fuel door location is typically not part of the buying decision, added Schirmer.

Those in Japan, India, the United Kingdom, Australia, Hong Kong, New Zealand, and countries in southern Africa drive on the left side of the road and sit on the right side of the car, and it appears they prefer right-mounted fuel doors, given the tendencies of car manufacturers. For at least 25 years, the conventional wisdom among auto writers has been that Europeans like right-side doors. However, when I posed this to my industry co-horts, no car company would speculate if or why that might be true.

Nissan, like most automakers, produces some vehicles with left fuel doors and some with right doors.

Reasons

“The placement of the fuel door is mainly a factor of fuel tank design, location and underbody packaging,” Nissan’s Steve Yaeger wrote in an email. “With all of the structure and components located underneath the vehicle, (engineers) would quickly encounter restrictions in trying to route the filler tube to the same side on every vehicle.”

If mechanisms such as a “big, honkin’ speaker” must be placed on the left side, engineers put the fuel door on the right, notes Schirmer.

The bottom line: Fuel door position is not a random choice, but if engineers have a good reason to place fuel doors on the right, that’s where they go.

If you can’t remember the location of your fuel door, don’t be ashamed to look at the little diamond-arrow on your fuel gauge … BEFORE you pull up to the pump.

]]>https://goodlife.allstate.com/gas-tanks-why-arent-all-fuel-doors-on-the-same-side/feed/0Maintenance tips for garage doors and openershttps://goodlife.allstate.com/maintenance-tips-for-garage-doors-and-openers/
https://goodlife.allstate.com/maintenance-tips-for-garage-doors-and-openers/#commentsSun, 01 Mar 2015 16:56:00 +0000https://goodlife.allstate.com/?p=1990by Cristel Mohrman Your garage door is the biggest moving part in your home, according to Bob Vila. To help ensure it provides you easy, safe and reliable access, it is important to keep the door and its opener working properly. … Continued

Your garage door is the biggest moving part in your home, according to Bob Vila. To help ensure it provides you easy, safe and reliable access, it is important to keep the door and its opener working properly.

Basic, routine maintenance can help extend the life of your garage door and opener. The International Door Association (IDA) recommends checking and testing your garage door system monthly. This includes looking at your garage door opener, springs, rollers, cables and pulleys for signs of wear. The IDA says you should also make sure the door is lubricated and balanced, and that you’ve addressed any other maintenance steps listed in your owner’s manual.

Here are some things to keep in mind to help you upkeep your garage system:

Balance

One of the first things you should do when testing your garage door, says the IDA, is check your door balance.

To find out if your door is balanced, the IDA says take the following steps:

Close the garage door.

Pull the door release handle to allow for manual operation.

Lift the door about 3 or 4 feet above the ground. If it stays open, your door is properly balanced. If not, you may want to contact a technician to adjust it.

Lubrication

The IDA recommends regularly lubricating all of the moving parts of your garage door during maintenance. According to Bob Vila, this includes rollers, bearings, hinges, springs and chains. To start, he says, put a drop of engine oil on the each roller, which will pull the oil into the bearings as it moves. Then lightly lubricate the hinges and springs so your system is less likely to get jammed. A home improvement column in The Washington Post says manufacturers suggest using a silicone lubricant or light oil for hinges, springs and chains, but it should not be applied to plastic parts.

Springs and Tracks

Doing a regular visual inspection of the springs, tracks and other door hardware is a great way to help prevent malfunction due to wear, says IDA. Unfortunately, Bob Vila notes there’s not a way to tell how much longer the springs will last. If you inspect them monthly, however, you may be able to detect issues. If your springs are still in good shape, Vila says, an older child should be able to open the door manually when it’s disconnected from the opener. If you find an issue with the springs, the IDA recommends calling a certified technician to handle repair or replacement, as the springs are under high tension and could cause serious injury.

To maintain the tracks, look at them each month and wipe out or vacuum any debris that may get in the way of the rollers, Vila says. Also check to see if they are aligned (parallel with each other) to avoid dragging wheels that could cause untimely wear, suggests the Washington Post. If you notice the tracks are out of alignment, the Post says to loosen the bolts in the mounts of the track, straighten the tracks and then tighten the bolts.

Sensitivity

According to the DIY Network, you can adjust the sensitivity of most garage door openers. Bob Vila explains it is possible to check the force of closing by putting a 2-by-4 under the door and shutting it. If the door bounces back up when it hits the wood, its level of sensitivity is likely appropriate. If it doesn’t, you may need to reduce the force via a setting on the garage door opener system.

Being aware of the condition of your garage door and opener is the best way to help prevent issues. Along with checking these specific components each month, look over your system for wear, rust, broken pieces and dirt, says DIY Network. If you come across any of these problems, the IDA recommends contacting a service technician to handle the repairs.

]]>https://goodlife.allstate.com/maintenance-tips-for-garage-doors-and-openers/feed/0Spring cleaning: Electronics editionhttps://goodlife.allstate.com/spring-cleaning-electronics-edition/
https://goodlife.allstate.com/spring-cleaning-electronics-edition/#commentsSun, 01 Mar 2015 16:52:18 +0000https://goodlife.allstate.com/?p=2005by Cristel Mohrman As you organize and declutter your home this spring, you may come across old or unused electronics. Before you toss those unwanted gadgets, though, you may want to consider recycling them. Recycling or finding new homes for … Continued

As you organize and declutter your home this spring, you may come across old or unused electronics. Before you toss those unwanted gadgets, though, you may want to consider recycling them.

Recycling or finding new homes for old electronics isn’t just an environmentally friendly option; throwing them in the trash may be illegal in your state, says Consumer Reports. So what should you do with old electronics? Here are a few options.

Recycle Old Electronics

Eectronics are composed of metals, plastics and glass, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says these materials are mined using natural resources or manufactured in a way that causes pollution. Recycled electronics can be an alternative source of these materials.

Many electronics manufacturers have set up programs for recycling old, broken technology, notes Consumer Reports. Through these programs, you may be able to return computers, printers and cartridges, phones, TVs, rechargeable batteries and even electrical cords to a drop-off location or through the mail, says Consumer Reports. Retailers of these products, nonprofits and local governmental bodies also often collect these items, says Consumer Reports.

If your electronics are old but still function, donation might be a good disposal option for you. The EPA says donated electronics can go to schools, nonprofit organizations and low-income families. In other situations, donated electronics can be a much-needed resource in times of trouble. For example, organizations like 911 Cell Phone Bank collect old cell phones and provide them to abuse victims, emergency service personnel and senior citizens as a way to call 911 in a crisis. As long as they have a charged battery, cell phones can be used to call 911.

If your electronics are outdated or have missing components, TechSoup.org suggests donating them to a refurbisher who can fix them up and pass them on to people who need them. A refurbisher can repair or upgrade the equipment and software before donating it so the item is ready to use right away. The EPA notes some donation organizations may not accept electronics that aren’t working or require a lot of updating, so you may want to make sure the device meets the refurbisher’s requirements before dropping it off. And, before you part with that old computer, be sure you wipe the hard drive to help prevent your personal data, including financial information, from ending up in someone else’s hands.

Tidy Up Cords

Once you have properly disposed of your old electronics, it’s time to clean up your cords. After recycling the cords you don’t use, Real Simple offers a few ideas for organizing the ones you still need. This includes:

Using a multiple-outlet adapter to save kitchen counter space

Wrapping excess cord length around an organizing device designed to keep it under control

Bundling your cords in a single tube, called a cable zipper, to consolidate the cords that hang under your desk

If you have cords or cables that aren’t in constant use, such as phone chargers, you can still keep them organized yet easily accessible. One solution, suggests BobVila.com, is to attach thin cables to the side of your desk with small clips.

Spring cleaning can entail so much more than washing the windows or cleaning out a closet. If you’re planning to clear out unneeded electronics or want to tame your existing workstation, these options may provide some solutions — and even benefit others in the process.

]]>https://goodlife.allstate.com/spring-cleaning-electronics-edition/feed/0Quirkiest car features of the last decadehttps://goodlife.allstate.com/quirkiest-car-features-of-the-last-decade/
https://goodlife.allstate.com/quirkiest-car-features-of-the-last-decade/#commentsSun, 01 Mar 2015 16:07:47 +0000https://goodlife.allstate.com/?p=2002by Brendan Unique car features and weird car accessories have come and gone throughout history. It seems manufacturers have always looked for new ways to stand out from competitors, and in some cases, it has resulted in some quirky ideas. … Continued

Unique car features and weird car accessories have come and gone throughout history. It seems manufacturers have always looked for new ways to stand out from competitors, and in some cases, it has resulted in some quirky ideas. Below is a list of some of the most original car features from the last 10 years.

Perfume Dispenser

Ever wanted a built-in perfume dispenser so you don’t ever have to hang those little scented trees on the rearview mirror? The 2011 Fiat 500 was introduced with a perfume diffuser offering three scents and various intensity controls, according to Road and Track magazine. This feature may have created a fresh-smelling car, but it gets in the way of the front cup holders, says the magazine.

Dry Windows

Driving in a heavy downpour usually means limited sight as raindrops hit your window and cars splash up water around you. To increase your visibility in these situations, Forbes says some vehicles have created “hydrophobic” side windows. These ultra-waterproof windows are designed to help maintain a clear outward view in a rainstorm via windows that shed water. Although such a concept may be difficult to envision, this quirky feature may be one of the more practical ones.

Stone Massage Chairs

Heated and cooled seats have been around for a little while now, but what about adding a massage feature? According to USA Today, in 2013, Mercedes-Benz introduced its new 2014 S-Class, which came complete with the ability to give the driver a hot stone massage – or at least a simulated one. The front seats have a programmable system composed of 14 actuated air cushions that move along the back of the seat in pattern with the heating system, says USA Today. This action results in customized back support while resembling a shiatsu hot stone massage, adds Forbes.

The ‘Gentleman Function’

Back in 2009, BMW came out with a new feature for seat control in its 7-Series, says Edmunds. According to Road and Track magazine, BMW’s “Gentleman Function” was basically a way for the driver to move the front passenger seat without having to get out of the car. With this button, the driver can create extra legroom for both passengers sitting in the back using the controls on the driver’s seat, says the magazine.

Pet Package

According to Car and Driver magazine, the 2010 Honda Element had some extra features specifically for your four-legged friend. If you see your pet as a member of the family, this may be a good vehicle option, as it allows owners to take their pets with them – comfortably. The package includes a soft-sided crate, portable ramp, electric mounted fan and spill-resistant water bowl, says Road and Track magazine. In addition, the vehicle came with dog-patterned seat covers and bone-patterned floor mats a dispenser for baggies to clean up dog waste, and paw-print badges on the front and back of the vehicle, says Road and Track.

As technology continues to evolve, it is likely we will see many more unique car features in the near future. What’s the craziest car feature or accessory you’ve seen? Let us know in the comments section below.